Anil Kumble turned 49 on Thursday, 17 October, and wishes poured in from the cricket fraternity for the former India spinner. Kumble, who recently joined the IPL team Kings XI Punjab as director of cricket operations, has represented India from 1990 to 2008.
Kumble was also the Head Coach of India for one year from 2016 to 2017. Under his guidance, India reached the finals of the Champions Trophy 2017.
Former India batsman Virender Sehwag wished his friend and teammate on Twitter.
He wrote, “One of India’s greatest ever Match winners and a terrific role model. Sorry for depriving you of your second century Anil Kumble bhai. But I pray that you score a century in real life. Only 51 more to go.. come on ..come on Anil Bhai! Happy Birthday.”
Recently nominated BCCI President-Elect and former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly wrote, “Happy birthday Kumble... have a great day .. lots of happiness and good wishes to you”.
Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman also took to Twitter to wish the former cricketer and said: “Wishing you a very special birthday and a wonderful year ahead Anil Kumble May God shower you with blessings today and always and I am sure this special day will bring you endless joy and tons of precious memories!”
Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh shared an image of him with Kumble and wrote: "Greatest spinner ever played the game.. biggest match winner for india.. happy birthday Anil Kumble my bowling partner and guru.”
The International Cricket Council also wished Kumble on his birthday.
Former Indian Cricketer and current BJP MP Gautam Gambhir also shared his thoughts and tweeted: “Birthday wishes to India’s greatest match winner Anil Kumble ! Have learnt so much from you and you are the best leader that I have played under! Thanks for inspiring generations of cricketers”.
Indian pacer Mohammad Shami wrote, “Many many happy returns of the day Anil Kumble. Dreams and success go hand in hand. On this your birthday, I wish you all of the successes and dream fulfillments life has to offer. Happy birthday!”.
Former India spinner, Pragyan Ojha also wished Kumble: “Many happy returns of the day Anil kumble bhai! Wishing you best of health and prosperity.”
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)